CANADA - Mussel farmers will continue to promote their sustainable and environmentally-responsible approach to aquaculture with support from the Provincial Government.

Vaughn Granter, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, announced more than C$53,000 to help the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association engage in mandatory audits to maintain the industry’s Canadian Organic Aquaculture Standard certification and Best Aquaculture Standards certification.

“Consumers today hold seafood producers to a high standard. In addition to seeking high quality products, they want to know their seafood is produced in a sustainable manner. Provincial mussel farmers recognised this trend and became the first Canadian producers to achieve certifications that prove their mussels are raised according to best practices. This government is pleased to commit C$53,200 to help them perform audits so they can maintain their competitive edge,” said Mr Granter.

The Provincial Government has invested almost C$1 million in the mussel industry since 2006. This investment not only assisted the process of certifying mussels produced in Newfoundland and Labrador to the Canadian Organic Aquaculture Standard, but also helped the provincial mussel industry achieve record production levels.

“Our organic certifications provide us with a tremendous opportunity to differentiate Newfoundland and Labrador mussel products in the global marketplace. The industry appreciates the Provincial Government assistance with achieving, maintaining, and promoting these certifications, and we look forward to building on the province’s reputation as one of the best sources of seafood in the world,” said Miranda Pryor, Executive Director, Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association.